Several local groups are collecting toys to give out this holiday season.

Georgia State Patrol has donation boxes set up that benefit the Marine Corps Toys for Tots Program.

Toys for Tots donations can be dropped off at the Dawson County Government Center, Dawson County Law Enforcement Center and Dawsonville Municipal Complex through Dec. 20. Toy donations can also be made at GSP Post 37, located at 4055 County Way, Cumming. Troopers will also accept toys from 1 to 3 p.m. Dec. 9 at the Dawsonville Walmart, during a car seat safety check.

Cpl. Jody Caldwell said toys donated to the Marine Corps Reserve should be new and unwrapped.

"Your donation fulfills the dreams of a child who might otherwise be forgotten," he said.

Dawson County Sheriff's Office employees are accepting new, unwrapped toys and clothing to pass out to children of inmates incarcerated in the local jail this holiday season.

Lt. Frank Sosebee organized the toy drive to show children that officers do care and are not the bad guy.

"Whether we are an officer or inmate, we are all human. We all understand that a child is the essence of human innocence," he said. "Even though families are separated for whatever reason, we at the sheriff's office want to do our part for these children to keep the family connection in a child's life."

Last year, officers and administrative staff from each sheriff's division donated hundreds of toys to the cause.

Toys can be dropped off at the law enforcement center from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

K.A.R.E. for Kids wants to make the world a brighter place for local children by collecting toys and clothing that will be distributed as part of the group's annual Christmas program.

More than two dozen Christmas "Star" trees are set up throughout the county to give community members the chance to sponsor children for the holidays.

K.A.R.E. for Kids volunteers have written requested wish list items on the stars from the children the organization will help this season.

Supporters are asked to pick a star, purchase the requested item and return the gift to the same location.

"You are welcome to pick as many stars as you would like," said Robin Smith, K.A.R.E. for Kids representative. "But please remember to return the item by the date posted at the location."